The ACGC Chargers boys basketball team’s season stopped short of the state tournament at the hand of the Remsen St. Mary’s Hawks. In a battle of offense versus defense, Remsen St. Mary’s defense won out. The Hawks were able to hold ACGC to well below their average and were able to use their size to score in the paint. Despite the Chargers’ effort to come back in the fourth it ultimately fell short in a 57-49 loss.

Throughout the postseason the Chargers had been able to get off to fast starts. However, it was apparent early on that this game would be different. Remsen St. Mary’s came into the game allowing just 37 points per game and used every bit of that to slow down the Chargers offense. In a slug fest of a first quarter, the Hawks held ACGC to six points to hold a 3-point lead at the end of the frame. Although the offenses picked up in the second, it was still low scoring. However, it was Remsen St. Mary’s that had the edge. Jeshua Phillips had three field goals for Remsen St. Mary’s as the Hawks started to expand their lead. With a minute to go in the half the deficit for the Chargers had become ten. However, as they did at points during the game, had a strong stretch. Payton Policky knocked down three field goals in the quarter while Jathan South hit a field goal and a three as ACGC slimmed the deficit to 29-24 before the end of the half.

Although there was a fair amount of the fouls in the first half, the second half was a foul fest. One player on each team fouled out while both sides shot over 15 free throws. However, little changed in the way the game played out. Much like the first half, the Hawks continued to trouble the ACGC offense. Using their defensive success as momentum, the Hawks were able to push the envelope gaining a 14 point lead. Despite this, ACGC didn’t go down without a fight. Late in the game the offense started to heat up. Half of the Chargers six three pointers came late in ball game as ACGC gave themselves a chance. However, it was ultimately too little to lead as Remsen St. Mary’s held on to earn a berth in the state tournament. South led the way for the Chargers finishing the game with 16 while Collin Homan led the Hawks with 13. Although disappointed, head coach Lance Kading was proud of the way his team battled.

Kading also touched on how the game played out.

ACGC boys basketball will look a little different next year. The Chargers are graduating four of their five starters and five total seniors. Kading is appreciative of what the seniors have done but is also looking forward for what is to come.